Papaya

/pəˈpaɪə/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A tropical fruit with a soft, sweet, yellow or orange flesh and a large central cavity filled with seeds, derived from the pawpaw tree.
I enjoyed a refreshing papaya smoothie on a hot summer day.
The tree that produces the papaya fruit, scientifically known as Carica papaya.
The papaya tree in my garden is finally starting to bear fruit.
The edible fruit, used in many desserts and salads for its sweet flavor.
She added slices of papaya to the fruit salad for a tropical twist.

Etymology

From Spanish 'papaya', originally from the Arawakan language.

Common Phrases and Expressions

papaya salad
A salad made primarily with papaya, often green papaya, mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, and other ingredients.
papaya enzyme
Refers to the digestive enzyme extracted from papaya, often used in supplements.

Related Words

tropical fruit
Fruits that thrive in warm climates, such as pineapples and mangoes.
fruit
The mature ovary of a flowering plant, typically containing seeds.

Slang Meanings

Someone who is overly sweet or nice.
She always brings me cookies; she's such a papaya.
A term of endearment used among friends.
Hey, papaya, how's it going?